Efficient Networks breaking hardware image

Making its first major product move since being acquired by Siemens, Efficient Networks today announced the release of a software suite to address the provisioning and deployment of high-speed data services.

Dubbed Tango, the four-module suite includes two new elements for DSL qualification and self-installation.

The idea behind the modules is to give service providers the most efficient means available to deploy DSL, said Bill Moore vice president and general manager of Efficient’s access software group. Recently, many carriers have gone to self-provisioning, which cuts the cost out of the initial service call but doesn’t always lead to efficiencies, he said.

“Just because you don’t send a truck out doesn’t mean it worked,” said Moore.

One application within the new suite, PC Qualifier, lets service providers place a “virtual PC expert” on the user’s desktop that analyzes the computer’s configuration, determines compatible broadband kits.

“The focus here is to get the right components on the doorstep in a self-install scenario,” said Moore.

The second element of the process automates many of the tasks involved in client-side installation and uses Macromedia Flash videos to guide subscribers through the process.

“It works them through the process,” he said. “It’s a much more efficient way of getting them installed than a quick-start guide.”

The two new modules, along with improved versions of the company’s access and support modules, are designed to help remove Efficient’s image of being only a hardware provider. In fact, software is now becoming even more important as the ranks of DSL providers thins, said Moore.

“The software is what personifies the service provider.”